Sustainability

The New York State legislature took a significant step toward expanding clean energy access by passing legislation that authorizes municipalities to establish Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) programs. This financing mechanism allows cities and counties across the state to offer bond-funded loans for energy efficiency improvements and renewable energy installations. For homeowners, builders, and local […]

The Passivhaus standard is widely regarded as one of the most rigorous performance benchmarks in construction. Developed in Germany during the early 1990s, it set strict targets for airtightness, heating demand, and overall energy consumption that buildings must meet to earn certification. Over the years, this framework has attracted a devoted following among architects, builders,

The Passivhaus standard has emerged as one of the most rigorous and effective approaches to energy-efficient building design in the modern construction industry. Originating in Germany in the 1990s, this performance-based building standard has gained global recognition for its ability to dramatically reduce energy consumption while maintaining superior occupant comfort. Unlike many green building certifications

When the federal government released stimulus funding for weatherization and energy efficiency programs in 2009, many states stumbled through confusion, regulatory delays, and slow rollout. Minnesota took a different path. The Builders Association of Minnesota launched Project ReEnergize, a rebate-eligible retrofit program that became one of the fastest-moving and most popular initiatives in the country.

The retrofitting of historic bridges with modern lighting systems presents a unique intersection of heritage preservation and technological innovation. When the 267-foot West Dummerston Covered Bridge in Vermont received its new LED lighting system in 2010, it demonstrated how state-of-the-art solid-state lighting could enhance both the functionality and aesthetics of a treasured historic structure. Built

Green building certification programs have become essential frameworks for construction professionals committed to sustainable development. From LEED platinum landmarks to Energy Star certified homes and passive house projects, these programs provide rigorous standards for designing, constructing, and verifying high-performance buildings that consume fewer resources and provide healthier indoor environments. Navigating the complex landscape of available

Across the United States, a growing movement is proving that small houses can solve big problems. While tiny homes are often celebrated for their energy efficiency and reduced environmental footprint, their potential as a tool for social change is equally compelling. In Dallas, the Cottages at Hickory Crossing project demonstrates how compact, well-designed dwellings can

The Solar Decathlon has long served as a proving ground for innovative residential design, challenging university teams to build fully solar powered houses that are both functional and beautiful. Among the most instructive entries was Team Boston Curio, an 800 sq ft house designed and constructed by students from Tufts University and the Boston Architectural

The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Train the Trainer Video Series represents a pivotal resource for construction professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of building science. Presented by Peter Yost, Director of Residential Services for BuildingGreen, LLC, this comprehensive training series equips instructors with the knowledge and tools needed to teach the NAHB Building

The landscape of residential construction is shifting, and green building certification programs sit at the center of that transformation. Homeowners increasingly ask about energy performance, indoor air quality, and environmental impact, yet the variety of available certifications can overwhelm even seasoned builders. Understanding how these programs work, what they cost, and why they matter is